Madrid’s festive week promises to be action-packed, with the city preparing a wealth of free events for residents and visitors. In the heart of the capital, at Puerta del Sol, thousands will once again gather to ring in the New Year to the chimes of the clock. But it’s not just the traditional street celebrations drawing crowds—there’s a program filled with intimate concerts, unique exhibitions, and family-friendly performances. There’s something for everyone, no matter your age or interests.
Organizers have ensured that the festive spirit will extend far beyond the city center, reaching every neighborhood. A vibrant lineup of events will unfold in cultural spaces, open-air venues, and cozy galleries, letting everyone experience the holiday mood and discover new facets of Madrid’s winter.
Family activities
Centro cultural Matadero Madrid remains one of the main hotspots for families with children. Visitors can enjoy street performances, interactive installations, and live music. The highlight is the show “El café del sombrerero loco,” where giant toys and inflatable figures create a fairy-tale atmosphere. There’s also a puppet and clown performance, “La Caravana del Dr. Masterfil,” designed to captivate both children and adults.
The music program at Matadero is just as diverse: acts like Luli Bono, Naked Family, El Cuerpo del Disco and other groups will take the stage. All events are held outdoors, which is especially appealing for those who prefer to avoid large crowds in enclosed spaces. The center is open from December 20 to January 4, except on public holidays when the doors will be closed.
The biggest night of the year
Puerta del Sol will once again become the epicenter of New Year’s celebrations. Around 15,000 people are expected to gather here to follow the tradition of eating 12 grapes to the chimes of the clock on the Correos building (Real Casa de Correos). Entry to the square opens at 10 p.m., and musical performances will entertain guests until midnight. For those not fond of crowds, a rehearsal evening is scheduled for December 30—an opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere without the rush and crush.
City authorities recommend arriving early to avoid queues and not miss the start of the program. That evening, traffic in the city center will be restricted, so it’s best to check in advance which metro stations and bus routes will remain open.
Music in the streets
Plaza de los Carros in the heart of Madrid will serve as the stage for street concerts. On December 27, Sugar Soul Shakers will perform here—their set features soul and funk hits inspired by Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder. The following day, December 28, at midday, The Good Men Swingtet, an international group, will bring swing and Christmas tunes to the audience.
That same evening, The Buttshakers will perform a set based on their latest album, Lessons In Love. All concerts are free, and the easiest way to reach the venue is by metro — the La Latina station (line 5) is just nearby.
Exhibitions and Art
Fans of contemporary art should visit the Casa de América gallery, where until mid-February, Bolivian artist Erika Ewel presents her exhibition “De los retazos me construyo” (From Scraps I Build Myself). Ewel works with textiles, transforming familiar materials into tools for reflecting on memory, identity, and social connections. The exhibition is open on weekdays and Saturdays, and admission is free.
Another compelling exhibition, “Memoria de un lugar” (Memory of a Place), has opened at the Espacio Mados gallery. It features works by Spanish and Latin American artists exploring the traces people leave in space and time. Each piece is its own story, an invitation to dialogue and to reflect on what we leave behind.
Immersed in Tradition
The Casa de México Foundation in Spain invites visitors to discover Mexican Christmas traditions. The exhibition features over 20 nativity scenes (belénes) crafted by artisans from various regions of the country. Its centerpiece is a display of ten clay figures, each more than one and a half meters tall. Visitors can learn about the range of materials, techniques, and symbols that make Mexican craftsmanship truly unique.
The program is designed for families and will appeal to both adults and children. The exhibition is open until January 11, and you can reach the Fundación by metro (San Bernardo station, lines 2 and 4) or by bus.
